Are fenugreek seeds beneficial for hair growth. How do fenugreek seeds promote scalp health. What nutrients in fenugreek support hair vitality. Can fenugreek seeds combat hair loss and dandruff.

The Ancient Herb: Fenugreek’s Origin and Traditional Uses

Fenugreek, scientifically known as Trigonella foenum-graecum, is a small green, leafy herb with a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations. Originating from western Asia, southern Europe, and the Mediterranean region, this versatile plant has been cultivated for thousands of years for its culinary and medicinal properties.

Both the leaves and small, brown seeds of the fenugreek plant have found their way into various cuisines and traditional medicine practices. The distinct aroma and slightly bitter flavor of fenugreek have made it a staple in Indian, Middle Eastern, and North African dishes, where it’s commonly used in curries, stews, spice rubs, and teas.

In ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, fenugreek was revered for its diverse therapeutic applications. These traditional practices utilized fenugreek to:

• Induce labor
• Improve digestion
• Soothe skin irritations
• Promote overall health and well-being

Recent scientific research has shed light on the potential health benefits of fenugreek, supporting some of these traditional uses. A 2011 study suggested that fenugreek may have favorable effects on blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and waist circumference, indicating its potential role in managing metabolic health.

Nutrient Profile: Fenugreek’s Hair-Boosting Potential

Fenugreek seeds have garnered attention in the beauty world for their potential to promote hair growth and improve scalp health. But what makes these tiny seeds so special? The answer lies in their impressive nutrient profile.

Essential Nutrients for Hair Growth

Fenugreek seeds are rich in two crucial nutrients for hair growth:

1. Iron: This mineral is essential for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to hair follicles. Adequate iron intake is crucial for healthy hair growth.
2. Protein: Hair is primarily made up of protein, specifically keratin. A diet rich in protein provides the building blocks necessary for strong, healthy hair.

Unique Plant Compounds

Beyond these essential nutrients, fenugreek seeds contain a unique composition of plant compounds that may contribute to their hair-boosting potential:

• Flavonoids: These antioxidants may help protect hair follicles from damage and promote a healthy scalp environment.
• Saponins: These compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which could contribute to a healthier scalp.

How do these compounds potentially induce hair growth? The anti-inflammatory and antifungal effects of flavonoids and saponins are thought to create an optimal environment for hair follicles to thrive, potentially leading to increased hair growth and improved hair health.

Scientific Evidence: Fenugreek’s Impact on Hair Growth

While the nutrient profile of fenugreek seeds is promising, what does the scientific research say about their efficacy for hair growth? Currently, research on fenugreek’s direct impact on hair growth is limited, but some studies have shown encouraging results.

Human Studies

A small study from 2006 involving 53 participants evaluated the effect of a daily 300-mg oral dose of fenugreek seed extract over six months. The results were promising:

• Over 80% of participants receiving the fenugreek supplement reported improvements in hair volume and thickness.
• These improvements were significant compared to the placebo group.

While these results are encouraging, it’s important to note that more long-term human research is needed to fully understand how fenugreek seeds may be used to prevent or treat hair loss.

Limitations and Future Research

It’s worth noting that some studies on fenugreek’s effects on hair growth have used remedies consisting of multiple herbs, making it difficult to isolate the specific impact of fenugreek. Future research should focus on the effects of fenugreek alone and explore optimal dosages and methods of application for hair growth.

Fenugreek for Scalp Health: Combating Dandruff and Irritation

Beyond its potential for promoting hair growth, fenugreek has long been used to treat conditions that lead to dry, irritated skin, including dandruff. But can fenugreek seeds effectively combat these scalp issues?

Understanding Dandruff

Dandruff is a common scalp condition characterized by itching and flaking. Several factors can contribute to dandruff, including:

• Excess oil production
• Fungal growth
• Inflammation
• Dry skin

In some cases, severe dandruff and scalp irritation could lead to temporary hair loss, making it a concern for those seeking to maintain healthy hair.

Fenugreek’s Potential Benefits for Scalp Health

While it remains unclear whether fenugreek seeds could effectively treat all causes of dandruff and scalp irritation, test-tube and animal studies have shown promising results. Fenugreek seeds have demonstrated:

• Anti-inflammatory properties
• Moisturizing effects
• Antifungal activity
• Skin-soothing capabilities
• Wound-healing properties

These properties suggest that fenugreek could potentially address multiple factors contributing to dandruff and scalp irritation.

Human Studies on Fenugreek for Skin Health

A small 6-week study involving 11 participants examined the efficacy of a cream containing fenugreek extract for improving skin moisture and reducing redness. The results showed significant improvements in both moisture content and skin irritation. However, it’s important to note that this study applied the cream to the cheeks, not the scalp.

While these findings are promising, more human research specifically targeting scalp health is needed to fully understand how fenugreek may be used as a therapy for dandruff and other types of scalp irritation.

Incorporating Fenugreek into Your Hair Care Routine

If you’re interested in harnessing the potential benefits of fenugreek for your hair and scalp, there are several ways to incorporate it into your hair care routine. Here are some popular methods:

Fenugreek Seed Paste

To create a fenugreek seed paste:

1. Soak fenugreek seeds in water overnight.
2. Grind the soaked seeds into a smooth paste.
3. Apply the paste to your scalp and hair, focusing on the roots.
4. Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour before rinsing thoroughly.

This method allows for direct contact between the fenugreek and your scalp, potentially maximizing its benefits.

Fenugreek-Infused Oil

To make a fenugreek-infused oil:

1. Crush fenugreek seeds and add them to a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil.
2. Heat the mixture gently for a few minutes, then let it cool.
3. Strain the oil and apply it to your scalp and hair.
4. Massage gently and leave it on for a few hours or overnight before washing.

This method combines the potential benefits of fenugreek with the nourishing properties of natural oils.

Fenugreek Tea Rinse

To create a fenugreek tea rinse:

1. Steep fenugreek seeds in hot water for several hours or overnight.
2. Strain the liquid and let it cool.
3. Use this as a final rinse after shampooing your hair.

This method can be a gentle way to introduce fenugreek into your hair care routine, especially for those with sensitive scalps.

Beyond Fenugreek: Addressing Root Causes of Hair Loss

While fenugreek may offer potential benefits for hair and scalp health, it’s important to remember that hair loss can have multiple underlying causes. A holistic approach to hair care should address these potential factors:

Nutritional Factors

Proper nutrition is essential for supporting healthy hair growth. Deficiencies in certain nutrients may contribute to hair loss. Key nutrients for hair health include:

• Protein: The primary building block of hair
• Essential fatty acids: Support scalp health and hair growth
• Iron: Crucial for delivering oxygen to hair follicles
• Zinc: Supports protein synthesis and cell division for hair growth

Incorporate these nutrients through a balanced diet rich in whole foods such as lean meats, fish, legumes, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens.

Stress Management

Chronic stress can contribute to hair loss through various mechanisms, including disrupting the hair growth cycle. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or regular exercise can support overall hair health.

Hormonal Balance

Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid disorders, can impact hair growth. If you suspect hormonal imbalances may be contributing to hair loss, consult with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.

Genetic Factors

Some types of hair loss, such as androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness), have a strong genetic component. While nutritional and lifestyle interventions may help, it’s important to have realistic expectations and consider medical treatments if necessary.

Safety Considerations and Potential Side Effects

While fenugreek is generally considered safe for most people when used in moderation, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and contraindications:

Allergic Reactions

Some individuals may be allergic to fenugreek. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.

Blood Sugar Effects

Fenugreek may lower blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes or are taking medications that affect blood sugar, consult with your healthcare provider before using fenugreek supplements or applying it topically in large amounts.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Pregnant women should avoid consuming large amounts of fenugreek, as it may stimulate uterine contractions. Breastfeeding mothers should also use caution, as fenugreek may affect milk production.

Drug Interactions

Fenugreek may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and drugs that affect blood sugar. Always consult with a healthcare provider before adding fenugreek to your routine, especially if you’re taking any medications.

When using fenugreek topically for hair care, it’s advisable to perform a patch test before applying it to your scalp to check for any adverse reactions.

Are Fenugreek Seeds Good for Your Hair?

Fenugreek — or methi — seeds are frequently used as a natural home remedy for thinning hair and other related conditions, such as dandruff or a dry, itchy scalp.

Beauty publications and other popular media sources claim that they’re the secret to growing thick, shiny hair.

This article reviews whether fenugreek seeds can promote hair and scalp health, as well as the best ways to incorporate them into your hair care routine.

Fenugreek is a small green, leafy herb originally from western Asia, southern Europe, and the Mediterranean (1).

Culinary and medicinal applications use both the leaves and the small, brown seeds of the plant.

Ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine practices used this herbal supplement to (2):

• induce labor
• improve digestion
• soothe skin irritation
• promote overall health

Research from 2011 suggests that fenugreek may also have favorable effects on blood sugar, blood pressure, and waist circumference (3).

The seeds and leaves have a distinct aroma and a slightly bitter flavor. Both are frequently used in Indian, Middle Eastern, and North African cuisines. Fenugreek can be found in curries, stews, spice rubs, and teas.

Summary

Fenugreek is an herb used for a variety of culinary and medicinal purposes. As an herbal supplement, it has been used to improve digestion, cholesterol, blood sugar, inflammation, and overall health.

Fenugreek seeds are a rich source of iron and protein — two essential nutrients for hair growth (4).

They also contain a unique composition of plant compounds, including flavonoids and saponins. These compounds are presumed to induce hair growth due to their anti-inflammatory and antifungal effects (5).

Research on whether these seeds encourage hair growth is limited. Still, a small study suggests that there could be some validity to these claims.

This older human study from 2006 in 53 people evaluated the effect of a 300-mg daily oral dose of fenugreek seed extract over the course of 6 months (6).

Over 80% of study participants who received the supplement reported improvements in hair volume and thickness compared with those given a placebo (6).

However, more long-term human research is needed to better understand how fenugreek seeds may be used to prevent or treat hair loss on their own.

Summary

A few small human and animal studies suggest that fenugreek seeds may be effective at increasing hair growth, though more research is needed — especially since some studies used a remedy consisting of multiple herbs.

Fenugreek has long been used to treat conditions that lead to dry, irritated skin, including dandruff — a condition marked by an itchy, flaking scalp. In some cases, these symptoms could lead to temporary hair loss.

There are many different causes of dandruff, including excess oil production, fungal growth, inflammation, and dry skin (7).

It remains unclear whether fenugreek seeds could effectively treat all causes of dandruff and scalp irritation, but test-tube and animal studies show they possess anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, antifungal, skin-soothing, and wound-healing properties (8, 5).

One 6-week study in 11 people on the efficacy of a cream containing fenugreek extract for improving moisture and reducing skin redness noted significant improvements in moisture content and skin irritation. However the cream was applied to the cheeks and not the scalp (9).

While current research suggests that topical application with the extract could possibly contribute to maintaining a healthy scalp, there is no guarantee it will work for everyone.

More human research is needed to better understand how fenugreek may best be used as a therapy for dandruff and other types of scalp irritation.

Summary

Some research indicates that topical application with fenugreek extract may help treat scalp irritation and dandruff. However, more research is needed.

A supplement like fenugreek may be less effective if you’re not addressing other possible causes of hair loss, such as inadequate nutrition, stress, hormonal changes, and genetic makeup.

If you’re not sure why you’re losing hair, it may be a good idea to consult your healthcare provider to help you address possible root causes of this issue.

Nutritional factors

Proper nutrition is essential for supporting a healthy head of hair. Deficiency of certain nutrients may contribute to hair loss (11).

Protein, essential fats, zinc, and iron are some nutrients that may play a role in supporting proper hair growth.

Some healthy food sources of these nutrients include:

• Protein: meat, poultry, fish, dairy, legumes, nuts, and seeds
• Healthy fats: nuts, seeds, fish, plant oils
• Iron: meat, spinach, seeds, legumes, tofu, dark chocolate
• Zinc: meat, shellfish, nuts, legumes, cheese

It’s best to obtain these nutrients from a balanced diet made up of primarily whole foods. Still, for some people, supplements may be necessary.

Before you begin taking supplements, consider speaking with a healthcare professional. Over-supplementation of some nutrients could worsen hair loss (11).

Stress and lifestyle

Stress related to aging or your lifestyle or physical stress applied to the hair itself — like pulling it back too tightly or exposing it to harsh chemical treatments — could cause hair loss.

Research suggests that elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol can weaken your hair follicles, leading to hair loss (12).

Excessive exposure to reactive molecules called free radicals may also contribute to increases in hair loss and graying by damaging cells, promoting inflammation, and accelerating aging (13, 14).

Antioxidants are compounds found in many foods that can protect your cells against free radical damage (13).

Implementing effective ways to reduce stress while consuming a diet high in antioxidant-rich foods can help encourage hair growth and keep your body functioning optimally.

Genetic makeup

Some symptoms of hair thinning may be due to genetic factors that contribute to a type of hereditary hair loss known as androgenetic alopecia.

Little is known about what causes this condition but experts believe it may relate to expression of certain genes inherited from your family or changes in hormone production (15).

At this point, evidence is unavailable to suggest that supplements like fenugreek seeds could have any effect on this particular cause of hair loss.

Summary

Many factors can influence hair loss and growth, including diet, lifestyle, and genetic makeup. Eating a balanced diet and reducing stress are two possible ways to improve hair health.

Evidence supporting the use of fenugreek seeds for hair growth is fairly weak. It’s unclear whether taking supplements or applying the extract topically has beneficial effects on hair growth or scalp health.

The seeds can be taken orally as a dietary supplement or applied topically to your hair in the form of masks and pastes.

Supplements

Fenugreek seed supplements are available as a powder or as a concentrated liquid extract.

There is no clear oral dosage recommendation, but some research has supported the use of up to 1,200 mg of seed powder or 300 mg of extract per day (4).

Though generally considered safe as a flavoring by the FDA, you should speak with your doctor about taking fenugreek supplements if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding or chestfeeding. Additionally if you are allergic or sensitive to peanuts, chickpeas or other legumes you should avoid fenugreek (16).

If you’re unsure, consult a healthcare professional before adding any supplements to your routine.

Topical application

If you’re planning to use fenugreek topically, soak a few tablespoons of the seeds in water for a few hours or overnight. This will create a gelling effect.

Next, grind the seeds in the gel to form a thin paste. You can apply this paste directly to your hair and scalp or mix it with coconut oil, yogurt, honey, or milk to create a mask.

Leave the treatment on your hair for 10 minutes or more. Rinse with warm water and clean with a gentle shampoo.

Summary

Fenugreek seeds can be taken orally as a dietary supplement or applied topically as a hair and scalp treatment.

Fenugreek seeds are often used as an at-home treatment for hair loss and dandruff.

Research supporting the seeds’ efficacy for these purposes is sparse, though some evidence suggests that they may promote hair growth and stronger hair follicles.

It’s always best to consult a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements to your self-care routine.

Can Fenugreek Boost Your Testosterone Levels?

Fenugreek is a powerful medicinal plant.

It has been used throughout history for its health-promoting qualities and natural ability to treat ailments ranging from digestive issues to skin conditions (1).

Recently, fenugreek has become popular for its purported effects on testosterone levels, causing people to wonder whether it can help treat low testosterone.

This article describes what fenugreek is, its potential health benefits, and whether it can be used as a natural way to boost testosterone levels.

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-groecum L.) is an annual plant that is native to India and North Africa. It’s grown and consumed around the world.

The seeds, leaves, and other parts of the plant are used in supplements, powders, tonics, and teas and are also popular ingredients in cooking, for example in Indian cuisine.

Throughout history, the fenugreek plant has also been used as a natural remedy for many ailments.

In fact, fenugreek was given to pregnant women to treat labor pains in ancient Rome and used to treat leg weakness and swelling in traditional Chinese medicine (2).

Fenugreek leaves and seeds are aromatic and have a complex taste described as nutty, sweet, and slightly bitter. The fenugreek plant contains an array of powerful compounds that are thought to be responsible for many of the plant’s therapeutic properties.

For instance, the seeds are rich in saponins and coumarins — chemicals that have been associated with many health benefits, such as reducing blood sugar and cholesterol levels (3, 4, 5).

Given that the seeds contain high amounts of potent compounds, fenugreek supplements typically contain concentrated extracts from fenugreek seeds or fenugreek seed powder.

Summary

Various parts of the fenugreek plant have been used in traditional medicine practices throughout history to treat a variety of ailments. Fenugreek supplements are typically made from concentrated doses of fenugreek seeds.

Fenugreek supplements are often used by those looking for a natural way to increase testosterone levels.

Testosterone is a sex hormone in both men and women that affects sexual function, energy levels, cognitive function, bone health, mood, and more (6, 7).

Your testosterone levels naturally decline as you grow older, and health conditions like obesity and diabetes are associated with low testosterone, regardless of age (8, 9).

Testosterone deficiency, or hypogonadism, is estimated to affect up to 39% of men over the age of 45. This condition is usually treated with hormone replacement therapy, though some seek alternatives like herbal supplements (10).

What does the research say?

Fenugreek has been researched for its potential to naturally increase testosterone.

It contains compounds called furostanolic saponins, which are believed to increase testosterone production.

Several studies have shown that taking fenugreek supplements may improve testosterone levels and symptoms related to low testosterone such as low libido.

For example, an 8-week study in 49 athletic men found that taking supplements with 500 mg of fenugreek daily slightly increased testosterone levels and significantly improved strength and body fat compared to a placebo group (11).

Protodioscin is a type of saponin in fenugreek that may be particularly effective at increasing testosterone levels.

A 12-week study in 50 men demonstrated that those who took a daily 500-mg fenugreek supplement that contained concentrated amounts of protodioscin experienced significant improvements in their testosterone levels.

The study found that testosterone levels increased by up to 46% in an impressive 90% of the participants. What’s more, the majority of the fenugreek supplement group experienced improvements in mood, energy, libido, and sperm count (12).

Additionally, a 12-week study in 120 men aged 43–75 showed that those who took 600 mg of fenugreek seed extract daily experienced increases in testosterone levels and improved libido compared to a control group (13).

However, some studies have concluded that treatment with fenugreek does not lead to an increase in testosterone, which highlights the need for further research (14, 15).

It’s important to note that some of the studies that found increases in testosterone levels were sponsored by companies that had invested in the fenugreek products being tested. This may have impacted the study results (11, 12).

Summary

Some research suggests that fenugreek supplements may increase testosterone levels, but additional studies are needed to confirm this.

Aside from potentially benefiting those with low testosterone, fenugreek has been shown to improve your health in other ways.

• May increase breast milk production. A recent review found that fenugreek significantly increased breast milk production in four out of the five studies included in the review (16).
• May reduce high blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that fenugreek supplements can reduce blood sugar levels and hemoglobin A1c — a marker of long-term blood sugar control — in people with diabetes (17, 18).
• Contains anti-inflammatory compounds. Fenugreek seeds contain anti-inflammatory compounds like flavonoid antioxidants, which may help reduce symptoms of certain inflammatory conditions like asthma (19).
• May reduce cholesterol. A review of 12 studies noted that fenugreek significantly decreased total cholesterol levels in people with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes (20).
• May have anticancer effects. Test-tube studies have demonstrated that fenugreek extract can kill certain cancer cells such as lymphoma and breast cancer cells (21, 22).

Although promising, more research is needed before strong conclusions can be made about fenugreek’s effects on these conditions.

Summary

Fenugreek may help regulate blood sugar levels, increase breast milk production, and offer anti-inflammatory effects, but more research is needed.

While some research suggests that fenugreek can improve testosterone levels, there are more thoroughly studied ways to increase low testosterone.

First, it’s important to note that low testosterone levels can be a sign of an underlying medical condition, so it’s important to consult your healthcare provider if you think you might be experiencing symptoms related to low testosterone.

Symptoms of low testosterone include low sex drive, fatigue, depressed mood, reduced energy, erectile dysfunction, and more (10).

If you are diagnosed with low testosterone, your healthcare provider will decide the best treatment method for you based on your individual needs.

That said, there are many natural ways to increase your testosterone levels, including:

• Losing excess body fat. Men who are overweight are more likely to have low testosterone levels, and research shows that losing weight can increase testosterone levels (23).
• Exercising. Exercise, especially high-intensity interval training (HIIT), has been shown to increase low testosterone levels in aging men (24, 25).
• Eating a healthy diet. Research has shown that eating a diet rich in protein, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables and limiting refined foods and added sugars may help increase testosterone levels (26, 27).
• Managing blood sugar levels. Having high blood sugar levels may increase your risk of developing low testosterone. Eat a healthy diet, exercise, and lose excess body fat to lower high blood sugar levels (28).
• Getting enough sleep. Research shows that sleep deprivation can decrease testosterone levels — even in young, healthy men. Ensure that you’re rested by getting the recommended 7–9 hours of sleep per night (29, 30).
• Limiting exposure to pollution. Those who are frequently exposed to pollutants like air pollution have been shown to have lower levels of testosterone than those who are exposed less frequently (31, 32).

In addition to the above tips, there are other natural ways to increase your testosterone.

For example, certain vitamin, mineral, and herbal supplements, including vitamin D, zinc, and ashwagandha, have been shown to raise testosterone (33, 34).

However, the effectiveness of supplements can vary depending on underlying deficiencies, medical diagnoses, current medications, and more. Thus, it’s important to discuss any new supplements with your healthcare provider.

Summary

Losing excess body weight, eating a healthy diet, exercising, and managing blood sugar levels are all natural ways to boost your testosterone. Consult your healthcare provider to discuss the best methods based on your individual needs.

Many people use fenugreek supplements to naturally increase low testosterone levels.

While some studies suggest that these supplements may raise testosterone, others have found no effect.

Thus, more research is needed before fenugreek can be recommended as a natural treatment for low testosterone.

If you think you may have low testosterone or have been diagnosed with low testosterone, be sure to discuss treatment methods with your healthcare provider before taking any type of supplement, including fenugreek.

Fenugreek, its uses and beneficial properties

Fenugreek is an aromatic plant from the legume family, common in Asia and Africa. It is used as a base for making curry, hops-suneli, ucho-suneli. In addition to cooking, it is popular in cosmetology, traditional and folk medicine. Fenugreek is known under other names – shambhala, chaman, mushroom grass.

What is fenugreek?

The plant is a small bush 60-70 cm high. Shambhala grows in Turkey, Iran, Egypt, India. The period of active flowering falls on May-June. Seeds are hidden inside the fruits, their number reaches 10-20 pieces. In the people, the plant was called “grass from a hundred diseases”, and it fully justifies itself. Shambhala is a part of dietary supplements and homeopathic preparations. In cooking, medicine and cosmetology, hay and blue fenugreek are used.

Useful properties and contraindications

Fenugreek is a natural source of folic acid, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, iron, selenium, zinc, enzymes, antioxidants. It is also rich in vitamins A, B, C. The chemical composition is not diverse, but in addition to vitamins and trace elements, shamballa contains flavonoids and fatty essential oils, which are rarely found in plants.

General health benefits of fenugreek:

• Lowers blood sugar levels.
• Regulates blood pressure.
• Normalizes the digestive tract.
• Reduces bad cholesterol levels.
• Strengthens the walls of blood vessels, prevents the formation of blood clots and plaques.
• Normalizes the functioning of the genitourinary system.
• Improves bowel function and prevents constipation.
• Has an antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal effect.

Fenugreek is rich in galactomannan, a dietary fiber. It suppresses appetite, which is important in the fight against extra pounds. Galactomannan also lowers the glycemic index of foods consumed. This property is very important in diabetes.

Despite the beneficial composition and effects on the body, there are contraindications for the use of fenugreek:

• Neoplasms of the reproductive system – the active substances of shamballa can aggravate the development of pathology.
• Excess estrogen and prolactin – the plant is a natural phytoestrogen, which will only increase hormonal imbalance.
• Allergic reaction – with the appearance of skin rashes, redness and swelling of the mucous membranes, it is necessary to exclude the spice from the diet.
• Taking anticoagulants and antidiabetic drugs.

Fenugreek for women and men

The main benefit of fenugreek for men and women is its beneficial effect on the reproductive system. The exception is pregnancy. It is allowed to use shamballa in minimal quantities, otherwise there is a risk of increasing the tone of the uterus and premature birth.

Fenugreek is a natural phytoestrogen. It helps to normalize the hormonal background during puberty, after childbirth, with menopause. It is recommended for breastfeeding mothers to stimulate milk production. The plant helps fight acne and other skin diseases.

Fenugreek is also valuable for men’s health – the plant stimulates the production of testosterone, which is responsible for potency and libido. Shambhala normalizes blood circulation in the pelvic organs, reduces the risk of developing prostate adenoma. With regular use, a stable sexual desire and an increase in body tone are guaranteed.

Recipes with fenugreek

In cooking, fenugreek is used as an aromatic spice. Helba yellow tea is useful for general strengthening of the body. Pour a teaspoon of seeds with 200-300 ml of water, add ginger root to taste. Boil 5 minutes. Fans of healthy baking can add shamballa to the dough, after frying the seeds until dark. Products acquire an original taste.

Fenugreek is an excellent accompaniment to meat, fish and vegetarian dishes. Shambhala can be used in the preparation of combined seasonings. Seeds are combined with zira, coriander, turmeric, cloves, oregano, cumin, red and black pepper.

You can buy real fenugreek in Minsk in the Greenery online store. Aromatic seasoning is packaged in sealed bags with different weights. We will promptly organize the delivery of the order to your home or office. Regular promotions and special offers from our store allow you to profitably purchase products that are healthy for your health.

Seeds of fenugreek (fenugreek, helba)

Fenugreek, fenugreek, mushroom grass, Greek hay, helba, shamballa – this amazing plant is known by many names, but even more famous for its miraculous properties. Originally from India and North Africa, fenugreek crowned with myths and legends, as a real miracle of the East. Fenugreek is a magical source of vegetable protein, dietary fiber and biologically active compounds. Calorie content of fenugreek is 323 kcal per 100 g of product.

Legendary Shambhala

The use of fenugreek for medicinal purposes is noted in the documents of Ancient Egypt. In ancient Rome, helba helped women during childbirth. In traditional Chinese medicine, the beneficial properties of fenugreek were used to make a tonic drink, as well as a cure for fatigue and swelling of the legs. In India, where the plant is called shamballa, helba is common as a seasoning, and for medical purposes it is used during lactation. Ayurveda also mentions fenugreek as one of the most valuable herbs for health. An interesting fact is that “Shambhala” is also the name of a mysterious country in the vastness of Tibet, the idea of ​​which is depicted in classical Hinduism.
Nowadays, fenugreek is widely used in folk medicine, home cosmetology, cooking and as an additive to a healthy diet.

Benefits of fenugreek

The benefits of fenugreek seeds are due to the powerful composition of this representative of the legume family: a complex of mineral elements (K, Ca, Mg, Na, P, Fe, Mn, Cu, Se, Zn), a combination of vitamins (A, B1, B2, B6, B9 , C, PP), saturated fatty acids, flavonoids, phytosterols, alkaloids, polysaccharides, phytoestrogens, enzymes, antioxidant compounds, essential oil and amino acids. Fenugreek seeds are an excellent source of essential amino acids such as: arginine, valine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, threonine, tryptophan, phenylalanine. Among the mineral complex that is part of the fenugreek seeds, you should pay attention to selenium. Clinical studies have shown that this mineral helps fight certain types of cancer.

Healing properties of fenugreek

The healing properties of fenugreek are of interest to doctors, scientists and ordinary consumers. Fenugreek is used as a natural alternative to artificially synthesized drugs in the following cases:

• Fenugreek is recommended to be included in the diet of patients with hypothyroidism and endemic goiter, both in combination with drugs and for disease prevention;
• Fenugreek is actively used to treat diabetes, especially type 2. Fenugreek seeds contain 50% soluble dietary fiber and 20% insoluble. This content reduces the level of glucose, due to a decrease in the rate of absorption of carbohydrates;
• Fenugreek works well for lowering cholesterol and triglycerides;
• Fenugreek is used in the treatment of lung diseases;
• Helba seeds are rich in flavonoids, which have a positive effect on the functioning of the heart and blood vessels;
• Polysaccharides have anticoagulant and hypoglycemic properties;
• Enzymes help improve the functioning of the stomach and intestines;
• Fenugreek helps reduce the symptoms of a cold due to its antimicrobial properties.

Medicinal use of fenugreek has received many positive reviews, but if you are considering taking fenugreek for medical purposes, we advise you to consult your physician. Fenugreek should be used with caution in people who are allergic to legumes, such as peanuts, chickpeas.

Fenugreek slimming

The interest of consumers is the possible effect of fenugreek on weight loss. However, despite the useful properties, helba for weight loss is not used. Clinical studies have shown that fenugreek does not reduce appetite, but rather can increase it, so using fenugreek for weight loss is not advisable. However, according to some reviews, helba helps to gain weight, which can be useful for some sports.

Fenugreek for women

The beneficial properties of Helba for women are due to the presence of steroidal saponins. Steroid saponins have various biological properties: antifungal, hypocholesterolemic, antimicrobial, antitumor, anabolic. Among the steroidal saponins found in Shamballa seeds, diosgenin is found in large quantities. Diosgenin produces estrogen in the body, which is why fenugreek is used by women to increase their bust. Helba for women’s health is useful due to the content of phytoestrogens. Fenugreek is also taken during menopause and during PMS. Fenugreek is actively used to increase milk during lactation, but be sure to consult a doctor, as a child may be allergic to it. Fenugreek is strictly forbidden to be taken by pregnant women.

Antioxidant properties

In a study of antioxidant activity in spices, fenugreek was one of the crops with the highest scores. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which are one of the causes of premature aging and serious diseases such as cancer, heart attack, diabetes, and stroke.

Fenugreek in cosmetology

Fenugreek seeds are quite common in home cosmetics. The most commonly used fenugreek for hair. Based on feedback from users, we can conclude that fenugreek helps against hair loss, and also increases volume and gives an attractive shine.

Fenugreek in cooking

In cooking, fenugreek is commonly used in Indian cuisine and dishes from the Middle East, North Africa. The seeds and stems of fenugreek are valued for their delicate aroma, reminiscent of the smell of nuts, beans and mushrooms. Chaman spice is prepared from ground shamballa. Ground fenugreek is also used to make curries and masalas. In Egypt, helba is used as an additive to wheat and corn flour when making bread. In India, fenugreek is used as a coffee substitute.

How to use fenugreek

Shambhala is used in cooking as a seasoning. Fenugreek seeds are also added to yoghurts and sauces. For medicinal purposes, fenugreek tea is most suitable. Some clinical studies have shown that helba yellow tea works better than using seeds in another form. As a cosmetic, fenugreek is most effective in the form of masks that are applied to the hair and face.

Buy fenugreek in Ukraine

The price of fenugreek may vary depending on the quality and region of origin.